Pope Saint Leo the Great, also known as Saint Leo I, served as pope from 440 to 461 A.D. His leadership came at a critical time for the Church, when the Roman Empire was collapsing and heresies threatened the unity of Christian belief. Yet through courage, wisdom, and deep faith, Leo became one of the most influential figures in Church history—both as a shepherd and a theologian.
Leo’s greatness rested first in his strong defense of Christ’s divinity and humanity. During his time, confusion spread about who Christ truly was. Some claimed He was only divine, while others said He was only human. In response, Leo wrote his famous Tome of Leo—a letter to the bishops of the East that clearly explained that Jesus Christ is one Person with two natures, fully God and fully man. His teaching guided the Council of Chalcedon in 451, which affirmed this truth as the heart of Christian faith. The bishops at the council reportedly exclaimed, “Peter has spoken through Leo!”—a recognition of his authority as the successor of Saint Peter.
Leo was also a true pastor and protector. When the barbarian leader Attila the Hun invaded Italy in 452, Leo personally went to meet him near Mantua. Through his courage and presence, he persuaded Attila to spare the city of Rome—an extraordinary moment that showed not only his faith but his moral authority as Christ’s representative on earth. Though the city would later be sacked by another group, Leo continued to comfort and guide his people with hope and mercy.
Spiritually, Leo taught that Christ’s incarnation dignifies our humanity. He reminded Christians that because the Son of God took on our nature, we are called to live with the same holiness and love that He revealed. In one of his sermons, Leo said, “Christian, remember your dignity! You have been made a sharer in the divine nature.” His words still echo today, calling us to live our faith with gratitude and integrity.
Pope Saint Leo the Great was declared a Doctor of the Church, one of the few popes to hold that title. His writings, especially his homilies and letters, remain treasures of theology and pastoral care. He is celebrated each year on November 10 in the Roman calendar.
May we, like Pope Saint Leo the Great, defend the truth of Christ with courage and love. In times of confusion and fear, may we remember that God’s Word is unshakable, and His mercy always greater than any storm.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
